Had an opportunity to taste some library wines from Alexander Valley Vineyards, and it was fascinating. They actually had a 1985 Pinot Noir that, while mature, had a lot of Pinot character. The 2000 Estate Cabernet was delicious...maybe wine of the day (when cost is considered). Even the 2002 Zinfandel was intriguing. The best wine was probably the 2004 Reserve Cab. AVV Cabs have a refreshing earthy-slightly green character I quite enjoy, and you could see the character come through across multiple vintages.

De Rosa Vineyards in Dry Creek is building a new winery for their "natural" wines. The 2009 Sangiovese was tangy and enjoyable, with zingy fruit character and a savory element. The 2011 Pinot Nero was a big wine, butfull of earthy and forest floor character...it would go well with a steak! Plus, the owner is an avid cyclist!

St. Supery 2004 Dollarhide was a beautiful example of purity in cabernet fruit, with a core of acidity adding amazing freshness. The 2009 Petit Verdot was a tannic monster, but I loved the texture and the blueberry/mocha character. I found the Elu blend less interesting, somewhat sweet and simple.

...(Humans) are unique in our capacity to construct realities at utter odds with reality. Dogs dream and dolphins imagine, but only humans are deluded. –Jacob Bacharach